A Modern, Accessible Streetscape Design at the Heart of a Vibrant Community

We helped the city of McMinnville, Oregon re-envision Alpine Avenue as a modern, mixed-use and pedestrian-friendly environment that still reflects the area’s history. The street’s reconstruction is part of the city’s Northeast Gateway Plan, the state’s largest shared-use roadway and redevelopment project. Eventually, the project aims to transform 75 acres of the city into a unique destination that accommodates future growth.

Planned as an infill and redevelopment project, the Alpine Avenue design addresses transportation needs and guides future development by creating a close-in working neighborhood within walking distance of downtown. Featuring five blocks of residential areas and businesses, Alpine Avenue serves as the central spine through the district.

As the lead engineering firm, our work included managing the multi-faceted project, conducting public outreach with stakeholders, performing traffic analysis at key intersections proposed for capacity improvements, completing right of way engineering and acquisition and designing the streetscape plan concept.

Strategic Design from a Collaborative Process 

The roadway includes many strategic features to achieve a mixed-use environment. The curbless, shared-use street enables ADA accessibility across the entire section. The placement and configuration of landscape areas are intended to calm traffic, improve water quality, create pedestrian gathering areas and enhance the character of the streetscape.

Completed on time and on budget, the project was funded by a combination of voter-approved bonds and city urban renewal funds. A collaborative development process allowed us to integrate feedback from the city, the Alpine Advisory Committee, stakeholders and adjacent landowners to create multiple designs. Our designers paid special attention to any existing features that could affect the streetscape design, such as driveways, signage and building entrances.

McMinnville’s newly renovated corridor will serve as a vibrant hub where residents can live, work and play. The possibilities for festivals and community events on Alpine Avenue in the future will help unite the community and stimulate economic growth.